Chief Justice Mark Martin has appointed Judge Bill Southern as chief district court judge for Judicial District 17B (Stokes and Surry counties), effective May 1. Judge Southern succeeds Chief Judge Charles Neaves Jr. upon his retirement.

"After speaking with courthouse staff and members of the legal community, I am confident that Judge Southern's responsive leadership will serve the district courts well," said Chief Justice Martin. "His demonstrated commitment to public service will enable the district to continue to operate fair and efficient courts that serve the needs of their communities, and that provide timely justice to all."

Judge Southern has served as a district court judge in Judicial District 17B since 2008, and previously served as an assistant district attorney. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina and the Texas Southern University School of Law.